multi track recording from sound board

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Level 2

441 points

multi track recording from sound board

I'm trying to figure out how to record multiple tracks from a sound board. I can't use the output from the sound board as it's already mixed all togther. I don't even know if this exists but I need to take each microphone input to the sound board (5 to 8 inputs) and feed the main sound board with it and feed the same inputs to me to record the multi tracks. In other words split them. Then take the multi track recordings and re-edit in post.

It's to edit live recordings as I'm unable to get a good mix from the main board during the live event.

Any ideas?

Powerbook G4, Mac OS X (10.4.4), 1 gig ram, 1.5mhz

Posted on Feb 28, 2006 6:25 AM

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Answer 1

mlehmann

Level 4

3,206 points

Mar 1, 2006 5:50 AM in response to Gary Cox1

First, STP is not able to do multi-track recordings, it's limited to one mono or stereo track. You'll need another software to do that. Garage Band can do that (maximum 8 inputs) or if you want a more professional solution, there's Digital Performer or Logic.

Most professional mixing boards have a direct out on mic inputs. Usually, this feed is post-preamp, pre-EQ. You simply need to take those outs and input them in an audio interface. I often use a MOTU 828mkII for this and it works very well. Also, if you buy a 828, it comes with AudioDesk, an audio-only version of Digital Performer.

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Answer 2

Gary Cox1 Author

Level 2

441 points

Mar 3, 2006 6:43 AM in response to mlehmann

It's no problem to tap into an aux out of the main board and adjust each input accordingly for just that output. The problem is that even with isolation headphones I'm getting too much of the main speakers feeding to my ears so I'm not able to obtain a good mix while I'm in the same room. The only way would be to split each input to my own sound board in another location away from the main speakers or record each input and re-edit back in a quiet room after the fact. I haven't seen a sound board which had a separate output per input that I could tap into.

I didn't mention also that this is a singing group where I'm trying to get the recording mix right.

I can get it fairly close but I often find I have someone just slightly out of adjustment which I didn't hear with the headphones while recording and I need to fix it.

Thanks... Gary

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Answer 3

mlehmann

Level 4

3,206 points

Mar 3, 2006 7:04 AM in response to Gary Cox1

Of course, it's almost impossible to mix a recording live and be satisfied. That's why I'm suggesting to record each input separately and mix that later. If the mixer you're using don't have direct outs, you can also use the inserts as sends. Use unbalanced cables and push the plug only halfway. That way, you'll use the send part of the balanced connection without the return. If you push the plug full, it'll mute your channel on the mixer.

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